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Leech Rifle

Presented by the NRA National Firearms Museum

When Major Arthur Blennerhasset Leech, on behalf of the Irish Rifle Association, published a challenge to American riflemen in 1873 to compete in a match — the only provision was that American competitors use American-made rifles. The American Rifle Club accepted and won, besting the Irish 934-931. In a gracious conciliatory gesture, Leech presented his rifle to one of the American competitors, Colonel George Wingate. The Leech Rifle is not presently on exhibit at the NRA National Firearms Museum in Fairfax, Virginia.

Major Arthur Blennerhasset Leech presented his rifle to an American competitor in 1873.